CBS Television Distribution sold the cable rights to the series “Criminal Minds” to A&E Networks and the broadcast rights to Ion Television.

A&E will begin showing episodes from the series’ first three seasons once weekly in May. It will begin stripping the series in September 2009.

“The addition of this series comes at the perfect time, as we get ready to reintroduce original drama series to the network beginning this summer,” said Bob DeBitetto, executive VP and general manger of A&E. The cable network also runs “CSI: Miami” and “The Sopranos.”

Ion will begin airing “Criminal Minds” in prime time beginning in 2009.

“This high-caliber TV series strengthens and broadens Ion Television with target audiences and advertisers long-term,” said Brandon Burgess, chairman-CEO of Ion Media Networks.